Save It This Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli became my easy answer to weeknight dinner requests craving something both comforting and healthy. The juicy chicken soaks up all that sweet-salty teriyaki goodness while broccoli roasts up tender with just enough char—one pan, hardly any cleanup, and the whole family is always happy.
The first time I whipped this up was on a chilly fall night. My house filled with the smell of roasting sesame and teriyaki. Now it is a dish I turn to anytime I want something special but simple.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts sliced thin: look for ones that are plump with a slight pink hue for best tenderness
- Broccoli florets: fresh is best for crisp texture though frozen works well in a pinch
- Teriyaki sauce: a good quality bottled sauce saves time or you can use homemade if you love a kick of ginger
- Sesame oil: opt for toasted sesame oil for richer nutty flavor
- Sesame seeds: these add a crunch and subtle flavor boost check for fresh aroma not bitterness
- Green onions for garnish: choose firm bright stalks for a fresh finish
- Salt and pepper: just enough to season the chicken and broccoli before roasting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius so the chicken roasts quickly and stays juicy
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the chicken breasts thin so they cook evenly then chop broccoli into bite-size florets about the same size for uniform roasting
- Marinate and Toss:
- Place chicken and broccoli in a large bowl Add teriyaki sauce and drizzle with sesame oil Toss really well using hands or tongs so every bite gets coated
- Arrange on Sheet Pan:
- Spread the marinated mixture in a single layer on a sturdy sheet pan Give everything some space so the broccoli roasts instead of steaming
- Roast to Perfection:
- Place pan on the middle oven rack Roast for twenty to twenty five minutes Stir once midway so chicken browns and broccoli edges get crisp
- Add Final Touches:
- Once chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender sprinkle over sesame seeds and sliced green onions right before serving
Save It Broccoli is hands down my favorite part of this dish as it soaks up all the sticky teriyaki around the crispy golden bits A few years back my daughter declared the broccoli tastier than anything else on her plate That moment turned me into a sheet pan dinner believer forever
Storage Tips
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three days You can reheat gently in the microwave or warm it in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the sauce If you want to freeze simply spread cooked chicken and broccoli on a tray to cool first then seal in containers
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap boneless skinless thighs in place of chicken breasts for an even juicier result If you do not have fresh broccoli try mixed bell peppers or snap peas for a change up in texture For a gluten free version make sure your teriyaki sauce uses tamari or coconut aminos
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice for a classic pairing I also love spooning it onto fluffy quinoa or into lettuce wraps for a lighter option Add a side of pickled cucumber or a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat
Cultural and Historical Context
Teriyaki sauce has roots in Japanese cuisine where meat is glazed and grilled with soy sugar and mirin Although this version is a quick Western sheet pan adaptation you can taste the same balance of sweet and savory that makes real teriyaki craveable
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring swap broccoli for asparagus spears In summer add sliced zucchini and sweet peppers In autumn include diced sweet potatoes for added sweetness
Success Stories
A friend of mine made this for her family’s Sunday dinner She texted me photos and raved that even her picky eater cleared his plate I hear from readers that this one is the easiest way to get kids to love broccoli
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can fully assemble and freeze the uncooked chicken and broccoli mixture with the sauce in a freezer bag When ready to eat thaw overnight then roast as directed For busy nights this hack is a dinner lifesaver
Save It Weeknights feel way easier with a one pan dinner that everyone actually looks forward to. This teriyaki chicken and broccoli is proof that homemade comfort does not have to be complicated.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy during roasting. Adjust cooking time if needed.
- → How do I prevent the broccoli from overcooking?
Cut broccoli into larger florets and toss evenly with oil and sauce. Check after 20 minutes for desired tenderness.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
Steamed jasmine or brown rice pairs perfectly, or try quinoa for a wholesome alternative.
- → Can the teriyaki sauce be substituted?
Try a homemade blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger if you don't have bottled teriyaki available.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.